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Sheet Composting The Smart Way
To Better Gardening

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You Can Even Use Sheet Composting In A Single Row In Your Garden

Sheet Composting


What Is Sheet Compost

This system is one of the simplest and most effective soil-amendment practices available. It is a good method for those who lack the space, time or desire to maintain a conventional compost pile but still want the benefits of compost in the garden.


The basic method is to spread organic matter in layers over the garden area to be composted, similar to traditional composting, and allowing it to compost where it sits. The area can be large or small even just a single row. Potatoes are fond of organic rich soil and like ground prepared in this fashion so it is an excellent way of fertilizing potatoes


The advantages of this system are:

  • Building up organic soil content quickly
  • Less work than composting in a heap
  • Can do very large areas with minimum effort
  • No maintenance
  • Create new gardens without breaking a sweat



Rules Of Composting

Even though this system is simple and relaxed, the 4 basic rules of composting should still be followed.

  • Balance Brown and Green Materials
  • Moisture
  • Temperature
  • Aeration in the beginning




Slideshow

Starting Seeds in Pellets



Sheet Compost Slideshow


Start Over

This method often utilizes both hot and cold composting systems depending how much and how often material is added to the row. However over time it doesn't matter and the result will still be a rich fertile growing medium for your plants. No need to be in a rush it will be ready when its ready and not before.



For more in the slideshow series go to the  Slideshow Library 



cover

While it is not necessary it often helps to speed up the process by covering the whole area with black plastic once the last material has been added. This will keep the decomposition process going longer into the colder winter months and regulate the moisture better.



finished compost

Depending on the materials used and climate, your composting efforts will be well decomposed within 6-9 months from the time you have added the final layer. When the compost is finished dig it directly into the garden area it was composted and plant your crop in the rich organic soil.




Related Pages

Fish Fertilizer
How To Make Compost
Organic Liquid Fertilizer
Making Worm Tea




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